Urgent Debates — COVID-19 Response—Report into Deaths in Self-Isolation

I have received a letter from Brooke van Velden seeking to debate under Standing Order 399 the findings of the independent review panel into two COVID-19 deaths in self-isolation. This is a particular matter of recent occurrence for which there is ministerial responsibility. The report was presented during the last adjournment. The matter is an important one. The report found that the deaths were potentially preventable. There is no other foreseeable opportunity to debate it.

Before I call Brooke van Velden to move that the House takes note of this matter of urgent public importance, I do want to note that we have, within the precinct, a very large group of people who are here to view on screens Government order of the day No. 3, and, therefore, I seek the leave of the House for the urgent debate to take place after the conclusion of order of the day No. 3. Is there any objection to that occurring? There appears to be none. I’ll now call, therefore, Chris Hipkins, for Government notice of motion No. 1.

Before I do that, a point of order, Mr Speaker. In making your decision on the urgent debate, I just wanted to check you were aware that that matter is still subject of a coroner’s investigation.

It might well be, but the Government, through its agency, has responded.